Thriving as a family in Switzerland: How the ISL PTA supports new expats

Moving abroad is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between figuring out a new education system, building friendships and navigating expat life in Switzerland, many international families find themselves starting from scratch. 

At the International School of Lausanne (ISL), however, families quickly discover they are joining far more than a school. They're joining a community.

Settling into expat life in Lausanne, Switzerland 

At the heart of that community is the ISL Parent Teacher Association (PTA), a dedicated team of parent volunteers whose mission is simple: help every family feel at home from day one.

As one PTA member explains: "We have families coming from all over the world who move here and don't know anyone, and the ISL PTA is here to welcome them and give them opportunities to connect with the community through frequent and varied events. It's really a chance to feel a part of things from day one."

For many expat families, that support can make all the difference; after all, new arrivals are not only adjusting to a new school, but also to a new country, city, language, culture and way of life.

How the ISL PTA supports international families 

The ISL PTA helps bridge that gap through welcome initiatives, parent networking opportunities and year-level WhatsApp groups, where experienced families share practical advice on everything from finding a dentist to understanding local services in Lausanne and Vaud and Swiss traditions.

One parent recalled their own experience: "At a PTA welcome coffee on the first day of school, I met two parents who had children in the same year group as mine. We exchanged WhatsApp details and have remained friends ever since."

Another reflected: "Most of the friends I have here today are people I met through different PTA events."

While the PTA organises a busy calendar of community gatherings, these events serve a purpose far beyond socialising: they create opportunities for families to build support networks, celebrate cultural diversity and develop a stronger connection to the school community.

Cultural diversity & community events at ISL 

One of the most beloved events each year is International Day, a vibrant celebration of the many nationalities represented at ISL. Parents transform the school into a global showcase, creating country-themed stalls decorated with national symbols, flags and cultural displays while serving traditional foods from around the world.

The event perfectly reflects the PTA's belief that cultural diversity should be celebrated, shared and enjoyed together. As one volunteer noted, "Since there are so many different cultures, you need something that brings people together."

The PTA's impact also extends to some of the school's most cherished milestones. Among the highlights of the year is the Graduation Celebration party, organised by parent volunteers following the official graduation ceremony. As one PTA member put it: "These are the memories made during some of the best years of our lives."

Joining the community: Advice for moving to Switzerland 

Behind every PTA activity is a simple philosophy: community is everyone's responsibility. From Halloween to Holi Festival, welcome brunches to the Winter Gala, the committee works tirelessly behind the scenes to organise events, coordinate volunteers and support school life. However, members emphasise that the strongest communities are built when everyone participates.

For families considering a move to Switzerland, this spirit of inclusion is one of ISL's greatest strengths.

One PTA volunteer offers straightforward advice: "If you have the time, absolutely get involved. We have a lot of fun together." Another adds: "It's the best way to meet people."

In a country where many expats can struggle to build meaningful social connections, ISL's PTA provides something invaluable: a ready-made network of families who understand exactly what it means to start over in a new place.

Or, as the PTA's vice-president sums it up: "The PTA is here to make everybody feel at home."

Visit the ISL website to learn more about admissions, school life and becoming part of one of Lausanne's most welcoming international communities, or book a tour today.